Summer High School Research Intern -Coating Data Evaluation

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory • Richland, WA

18h • Onsite

About The Position

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.
The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex, real-world threats to our nation and the world.
The Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Technologies Division, within the National Security Directorate, works across fundamental science, research and development, and operations to counter emerging national security threats. We focus on discovering signatures and understanding threats by creating materials, methods, and technologies to detect and analyze them. Our researchers deliver the solutions necessary for addressing complex mission challenges, such as explosives detection, biological threat detection, chemical and nuclear forensics, and special nuclear materials.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking a high school student for the Summer High School Research Internship (HSRI). This internship provides an opportunity for students interested in preparing for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) to work during the Summer with a scientist/mentor in a specified research area. HSRI is a 10-week program, estimated based on start date; the anticipated start date for summer cohort will be June 16, 2026.
The team is looking for a high school student who will be learning statistical concepts related to sample planning and PNNL software Visual Sample Plan (VSP). A successful candidate will show scientific curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and good communication skills.
Responsibilities: This position will focus on analysis of experimental data obtained from development and evaluation of new coatings that can prevent accumulation of unwanted biological materials in marine and freshwater energy systems.
Due to the nature of this program, applicants must be currently enrolled in a local Tri-Cities, WA area high school. This internship is designed to be onsite and requires interns to work in person at our Richland, WA location to support hands-on learning and collaboration.

Requirements

• Applicants must be currently enrolled as a sophomore, junior or senior in a public or private high school at time of application
• Applicants must be 16 years of age by start date
• Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (from beginning of 9th grade to current standing)
• Basic knowledge of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus

Nice To Haves

• Interest or experience in marine science and data analysis using Python
• Experience with basic office software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Good time management
• Ability to work independently

Responsibilities

• Learning data analysis techniques and applying them to well defined assignments in a research and development team
• Working in technical teams to complete project tasks on time
• Thoroughly documenting analysis, including methods and results

Benefits

• Employees are offered an employee assistance program and business travel insurance.
• Employees are eligible for the company funded pension plan and 401k savings plan, once eligibility requirements are met.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED